LPCC vs. LMFT: The Benefits of Dual Licensure as a Marriage Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor)rebecca adams)11/15/2016<p>
Psychology graduates who are interested in building their industry
credibility may considerhttp://www.argosy.edu/our-community/blog/lpcc-vs-lmft-the-benefits-of-dual-licensure-as-a-marriage-family-therapist-and-professional-clinical-counselor

LPCC vs. LMFT: The Benefits of Dual Licensure as a Marriage Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor

Psychology graduates who are interested in building their industry
credibility may consider pursuing licensure as both a marriage family
therapist (LMFT)
and a professional clinical counselor (LPCC). The “stamp of
approval” that goes along with these licenses can also benefit
psychologists as they seek to
move to new jobs within the mental health profession.

LMFTs help individuals to cope with life situations and
stress—assisting them with growth and changing behavior to make stronger
decisions. LPCCs work with
individuals to help them grow within a marriage and/or family
situation. Combining these skills and certifications can help
psychologists to better assists
clients whose needs fall into both areas—individual and family.

Additionally, having both licenses exemplifies a high level of
ethical standards. “Dually licensed clinicians who are members of both
ACA and AAMFT would
be responsible to the ethical codes of both professional
associations.”

Dual licensure supports the fact a person holding the licenses has
the background needed to pass both licenses’ rigorous testing
requirements. And it can
give an edge when working for or with the federal government.

According to AAMFTCA, the federal government similarly recognizes
both licenses. “MFTs and LPCs have similar recognition at the federal
level. The Public
Health Services Act recognizes MFTs as a core mental health
profession. This recognition is not granted to LPCCs, however, both MFTs
and LPCCs are defined
as behavioral and mental health professionals through the National
Health Service Corps.”

Individuals holding LMFT licensure are recognized by the Department
of Transportation Substance Abuse Program, Minority Fellowship Program,
and
TRICARE—these programs exclude LPCs as independent providers.
However LPCCs, and not LMFTs, are specifically named in the No Child
Left Behind Act. “Both
professions are working independently and collaboratively to open
all federal programs to their disciplines,” states AAMFTCA.

Argosy University does
not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies
control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing
exams and are
subject to change without notice to Argosy University.